Medicine and alcohol don’t go hand in hand, and we all know that. But, did you know that there was a medicinal tonic that later became a beloved ingredient in many cocktails around the world? Yes, we are talking about the iconic Jägermeister! Let’s understand more about this interesting liqueur!
A Brief History Of Jägermeister
The name Jägermeister in German literally translates to ‘Master Hunter’. The title was bestowed upon high-ranking officials in charge of the hunting and gamekeeping matters. Wilhelm Mast ran a vinegar company in Wolfenbüttel, Germany.
It is in this company that his son, Curt Mast, concocted the first-ever Jägermeister in 1934. It took him several years to master the recipe, but in the end he succeeded. He combined 56 spices and herbs, and innovative techniques to make this liqueur – the recipe which still remains the same, years after its invention!
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What Kind Of Liqueur Is Jägermeister?
Is it whiskey? Is it rum? Or is it something like beer?
The answer is – none of the above!
The drink is, in fact, a ‘digestif’. To put it in simple words, digestifs are intended to aid digestion and are generally lower-ABV (alcohol by volume) liqueurs. These digestifs are usually infused with spices, bark, herbs, and other ingredients that can help in digestion.
The drink is best served as a chilled, ice-cold shot – that way you’ll be able to enjoy the delightful flavors of the 56 herbs and spices. It is also served in the form of Jäger bombs and several creative cocktails like the Frozen Jägerita and Jäger Mule.
The Strange Conspiracy Theory About Jägermeister
You must’ve heard of countless conspiracy theories and stories of how some of the world’s most iconic products were a result of a strange invention, or a mishap, or a wrong ingredient being used. And strangely enough, Jägermeister too, got caught up in a string of peculiar theories. The most famous being about the ‘secret’ ingredient it used.
There were many conspiracy theories hovering around on the internet that stated that the drink owed its intoxicating properties to a rather peculiar ingredient – deer’s blood! Yes you heard it right! However, the company clarified that no such ingredient was used to prepare Jägermeister and that the recipe is entirely vegan!
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The Legacy Of Jägermeister
The iconic green bottle instantly catches your attention – especially with the real-looking deer logo. The deer is linked to the legend of Saint Hubertus, who saw a mighty stag with a holy cross between its antlers. The legend intrigued Mast and he decided to make it as the brand’s logo.
Today, the liqueur continues to remain a staple at every party, and is especially popular among the younger crowd. From being a star at every frat party to being an eye-catching bottle on every bar’s shelves, the drink has had a long and interesting legacy indeed!
Summing Up
The Jägermeister is an iconic drink, and there’s no two ways about it. From its intriguing history to its secret age-old recipe, and even the interesting theories it was surrounded by, this German liqueur continues to steal everyone’s hearts. Time for you to chug a shot of Jägermeister!
FAQs
Do You Drink Jägermeister By Itself?
Yes, you can drink Jägermeister by itself. It is recommended to have it as an ice-cold shot as the flavors are enhanced that way.
Is Jager A Brandy Or Whiskey?
Jägermeister is neither a brandy or whiskey. It is, in fact, a digestif that aids with digestion.
What Does Jägermeister Smell Like?
Jägermeister has a mildly balanced and spicy aroma, thanks to its 56 herbs, spices, and other ingredients.
